Being Energy Efficient Saves Money in Cold Weather
Our area of the country typically experiences severe winter weather, including low temperatures, snow, ice and high winds. A primary consumer of energy in these severe conditions is your heating source. Understanding the type of heating system you have will help you better manage your heating costs in severe weather.
Many Blue Ridge Electric members use electric resistance heat to heat their homes. Electric resistance heat can be supplied by centralized forced-air electric furnaces or by heaters in each room. Room heaters can consist of electric baseboard heaters, electric wall heaters, electric radiant heat, or electric space heaters. However, heat pumps are becoming more common in our mountain districts and are a primary heating source in our foothill region. Which system do you have?
What are other ways we can save energy and money?
- Have your heat pump serviced properly and according to your manufacturer’s recommendations so that it’s operating at maximum performance and efficiency. Heating and cooling make up a substantial portion of your energy bill.
- Install a programmable thermostat to automatically adjust the time you turn on the heating. Lowering temperatures even just a few degrees at night while you sleep can help save.
- Seal air leaks so you don’t lose warm air or let cold air in. A qualified heating technician can check your heating system’s duct work and make any necessary repairs and ensure they’re sealed properly. Caulk, seal, and weatherstrip all seams, cracks and openings to the outside especially around doors and windows. You can even install foam gaskets behind outlet and switch plates on walls.
- When a fireplace isn’t in use, keep the flue damper tightly closed.
- Open curtains and blinds on southern-facing windows during the daytime to allow the sun to help naturally heat your home.
- Water heating is typically the third largest energy user in most homes. Reduce hot water usage by installing low-flow faucets and showerheads. Lower the thermostat on your hot water heater to 120 degrees and properly insulate older model water heaters according to manufacturer’s suggestions. Blue Ridge offers water heater wrap kits at greatly discounted member prices in district offices.
- Appliances also contribute to a home’s energy usage, especially refrigerators, washers and dryers, freezers, cooking units and dishwashers. Be sure to select Energy Star models if you’re looking to replace appliances.
